ROCK N' ROLL HALL OF FAMER ROBBIE ROBERTSON OF THE BAND PASSES

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One of the giants of popular music has passed. Robbie Robertson, lead guitarist and songwriter for The Band, died yesterday at his home at the age of 80.

The creative mind behind such legendary songs as "The Weight," "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down," "Up on Cripple Creek" and many others, the Canadian musician was considered an inspiration to the biggest names in rock history, including Bob Dylan, Elton John, Eric Clapton and U2 among many, many others. 

The Band - led by Robertson - started out as the backing band for rockabilly star Ronnie Hawkins before becoming Bob Dylan's touring band - and then embarking on their own journey in 1968 with their debut album, "Music From Big Pink." The Band lasted only eight years, before going out on a high note with the Martin Scorsese concert film, "The Last Waltz" which came out in 1978 - but their influence continues to be felt throughout popular music. 

• Speaking of Scorsese, he had a lot to say in his reaction to Robertson's passing. "Robbie Robertson was one of my closest friends, a constant in my life and my work. I could always go to him as a confidante. A collaborator. An advisor. I tried to be the same for him. Long before we ever met, his music played a central role in my life - me and millions and millions of other people all over this world. The Band’s music, and Robbie’s own later solo music, seemed to come from the deepest place at the heart of this continent, its traditions and tragedies and joys. It goes without saying that he was a giant, that his effect on the art form was profound and lasting. There’s never enough time with anyone you love. And I loved Robbie."
• Neil Diamond also paid tribute, saying "The music world lost a great one with the passing of Robbie Robertson. Keep making that Beautiful Noise in the sky Robbie. I'll miss you. " See other tributes to the Canadian legend below.

Source: RollingStone